Smith & Wesson’s name is legendary in the history of the revolver. From the development of the .357 Magnum to Dirty Harry’s Model 29, the fingerprints of this company are all over the wheelgun world. While some would like to claim the revolver dead, nothing could be further from the truth. While at the recent SHOT Show, I saw dozens of new revolvers on display. Some were brand new designs while others were variations of a current offering.
Of all the companies, Smith & Wesson appeared to have the largest number of new guns on display. Here is a look at a few of these new guns.
Combat Magnums
S&W introduced a pair of Combat Magnums with short barrels for concealed carry. One is a Model 66 in .357 Magnum. This K-frame revolver holds six shots and has a 2.75″ barrel. The other gun is the Model 69. The Model 69 is chambered for the .44 Magnum cartridge. For the 69, S&W stepped up to the L-frame and reduced capacity to 5 rounds.
Both guns have synthetic grips and a pinned front ramp sight with a red insert. Both guns also have a full underlug to protect the ejector rod.
Performance Center Revolvers
The Smith & Wesson Performance Center (PC) is one of the best in-house gunsmithing teams you can find anywhere. In addition to doing custom work, the PC crew also develops new models for limited sales.
Model 42 Enhanced Action
These guns are also fitted with custom wood grips that are thin for concealment, but slightly longer than the stock boot grips. This allows you to get more of your hand on the gun to control recoil.
Model 460XVR Hi Viz
This X-frame gun is chambered for the smoking hot .460 S&W Magnum cartridge. The 7.5″ barrel is fitted with a special muzzle brake, and the top of the gun has a length of rail for adding a scope. The standard cylinder has been replaced with a polished, unfluted one. The PC crew tuned the action for a slick double-action pull and a crisp single-action break. As the name suggests, the gun comes with a front fiber optic sight from Hi Viz.
